UTICA, N.Y. (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) – With Utica University First-Year students moving in earlier this week, that meant it was time for the continuation of a now yearly tradition aimed at getting those new students involved in the Utica community, Pioneer Pitch-In.

For the second straight year the Utica University teamed up with the Mohawk Valley Challengers, a local no-profit that give children with special needs the opportunity to play flag football as a team, as their contribution to the Pitch-In.

The teams met up Thursday morning on the gridiron for some skills and drills and even a scrimmage. Eyewitness Sports Director Brennan Miller was there and spoke with Utica Head Blaise Faggiano about what this day means to him and his squad.

To learn more about and possibly get involved with the the Mohawk Valley Challengers you can visit their Facebook Page, Mohawk Valley Challengers, where there is more detailed information and ways to contact them.